Unfortunately, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and middle-order batter Mohammad Irfan Khan won’t be playing the remaining T20Is against New Zealand due to injuries.
According to a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) statement, the management decided to rest the two players after reviewing their Radiology reports. While the statement did not specify the nature of their injuries. But, it seems Rizwan might have a hamstring issue. It’s clearly seen from his difficulties while batting in the third T20I.
“The decision to rest the two players from Thursday’s and Saturday’s T20Is against New Zealand was made after reviewing the reports and consulting with the Pakistan team management,” stated the PCB.”
Rizwan & Niazi Face Injury Setbacks in Cricket Series
Rizwan received extensive on-field attention before going off retired hurt. The PCB has downplayed the extent of his injury, saying he is expected to be out for no more than a week to ten days, and that the injury does not imperil any future tours as things stand.
While there was no sign of discomfort for Niazi during that game, he is also believed to have picked up a hamstring niggle, resulting in the PCB pulling him out of the series.
Effects of Rizwan’s Absence on the T20I Series
The pair’s absences follow Azam Khan’s unavailability for the tour with injury, though an official statement said he only needed 10 days of rest, suggesting there is no long-term availability issue.
While Haseebullah, who made his sole international appearance in a T20 against New Zealand earlier this year, was called up as cover for Azam, no further replacements have been announced.
Pakistan does have wicketkeeping options in Rizwan’s absence. While Haseebullah has not featured yet, he is a wicketkeeper-batter. Usman Khan also kept a wicket for two games for the Multan Sultans earlier this year in the PSL.
The injuries come at an inopportune time for Pakistan with the series on the line in Lahore. New Zealand bounced back from a crushing defeat in the second T20I with a dominant performance to level the series in Pindi, with the final two games in Lahore.
Also Read: Shakib Likely to Make T20I Return Against Zimbabwe
About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer with a love for cricket that shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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